UAE Business Setup Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of setting up your business in the UAE mainland or free zones based on your specific requirements.
Mainland vs Free Zone: What's Right for You?
🏙️ Mainland LLC
A mainland company allows you to trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally with a Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) license.
🏝️ Free Zone
Free zone companies offer 100% foreign ownership with tax benefits but are restricted to trading within the free zone and internationally.
Understanding Business Setup Costs
Key Cost Components
When setting up a business in the UAE, you should budget for the following expenses:
- 1Trade License Fee:
The primary cost for your business license, varying by activity and authority
- 2Registration Fees:
Initial registration and approval fees with the relevant authority
- 3Office Space:
Physical or virtual office requirements vary by jurisdiction
- 4Visa Costs:
Employment and investor visa fees, medical tests, and Emirates ID
- 5Annual Renewal:
Yearly license renewal fees and ongoing maintenance costs
Calculate Your Setup Costs
Select your business type and requirements to estimate your startup costs.
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Business Setup Timeline
Initial Approval
Trade name reservation and initial approval from the authority
Document Preparation
MOA, lease agreement, and other documentation preparation
Final Submission
Submit all documents and receive final approval
License Issuance
Receive your trade license and establish bank account
*Timelines vary by business type, authority, and documentation completeness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the minimum cost to start a business in UAE?
The minimum cost varies significantly. Free zone companies can start from around AED 12,000-15,000 annually, while mainland LLCs typically require AED 20,000-30,000+ depending on the business activity and location. Use our calculator for a more accurate estimate.
Do I need physical office space?
Most mainland businesses require physical office space or at least a designated desk in a business center. Many free zones offer virtual office options for certain business activities. The office requirement significantly impacts your startup costs.
How many visas can I get?
The number of visas depends on your office space and business activity. Typically, you can get 1-3 visas with a basic setup, scaling up with larger office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,000-5,000 including processing fees.
Can I change from free zone to mainland later?
Yes, you can transfer from a free zone to mainland. The process involves canceling the free zone license and establishing a new mainland entity, which has associated costs. We recommend choosing the right structure from the beginning.
What taxes apply after setup?
After setup, businesses may be subject to 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000 and 5% VAT if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. Free zone businesses may qualify for 0% corporate tax if they meet Qualifying Free Zone Person criteria.
Our Business Setup Services
Business Setup Consultation
Expert guidance on choosing the right jurisdiction and business structure for your needs.
Corporate Tax Registration
Register your new business for corporate tax and ensure compliance from day one.
VAT Registration
VAT registration for businesses exceeding the threshold or voluntary registration.
Accounting Setup
Set up proper accounting systems and bookkeeping from the start.
Ready to Start Your Business?
Our business setup consultants can guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right jurisdiction to receiving your license.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on typical business setup costs in the UAE. Actual costs may vary based on specific business activities, chosen authority, current fee schedules, and additional requirements. Apex FinConsultants recommends scheduling a consultation for accurate cost assessment tailored to your business needs.